How to Install Ceramic Tile on New Concrete

Installing ceramic tile on new concrete is inexpensive and easy!

Installing ceramic tiles on new concrete is an ideal solution when installing tile. Ceramic tiles are inexpensive and easy to replace in the long-term. You'll need to prepare the surface of the concrete before laying ceramic tile, but once it's prepped, it's easy to get started. Here's how to install ceramic tile on new concrete:

Things You'll Need

• tiles and spacers
• level
• pencil
• tile adhesive
• floor patch and leveler compound
• notched trowel
• tile cutter
• grout
• rubber float
• sponge
• acid based solution for roughing up concrete
• knee pads

Instructions

1. 

   Be sure to let the new concrete cure for at least 28 days before installing ceramic tile on top of it.

2. 

   Concrete must be thoroughly cleaned before laying tile on top of it - any old paint, fillers, glues or sealants need to be removed prior to tile installation. Also be sure to remove any dust, mop the concrete with water and allow it to dry completely. If the concrete is smooth, treat it with an acid based solution to roughen it up before you lay ceramic tile on top of it.

3. 

   Be sure to fill any holes and smooth out any bumps on the concrete before laying ceramic tile on top of it (use a floor patch and leveler compound from your local home improvement store). Use a leveler to ensure the surface is flat.

4. 

   Find the center of the concrete area you are tiling and 'dry fit' the tiles to see if the pattern ends similarly on the edges. Use a pencil to mark vertical and horizontal lines where appropriate. You want the ceramic tile size to be consistent as they approach each end point when laying tile on concrete.

5. 

   Apply the tile adhesive with the notched trowel, starting in the middle of the wall or floor. Lay the ceramic tiles in the adhesive and place the spacers in-between each tile as you go. Be sure to give each tile a little twist to ensure a good bond with the adhesive. Cut the ceramic tiles as needed to fit on the ends. You can also use sandpaper to smooth out the tile edges if they are sharp after you cut them.

6. Let the ceramic tiles dry in the adhesive overnight.

7. 

   Remove the tile spacers and mix the grout according to the manufacturer's directions.

8. 

   Using the rubber float, apply the grout to the ceramic tiles at a 45 degree angle. Wipe off excess grout with a wet sponge.

9. 

   After about an hour, check for grout haze on the ceramic tiles and wipe them clean as needed.

10. 

    Seal the edges with mildew resistant caulk if you are tiling in an area that may get wet like the bathroom or kitchen.

11. See the Resources listed below for more tiling and home improvement ideas.

Tips & Warnings

• If the space between your tiles is wider than 1/8 inch, use sanded grout for a stronger hold. Otherwise you can use non-sanded grout.

• Make sure you use a waterproof grout if you are tiling in an area that will get wet. Apply grout sealant as desired.

• Use rubber gloves when applying the adhesive and grout.

• After cutting ceramic tiles, be sure to handle them carefully - their edges may be sharp.

• Always wear goggles when cutting ceramic tile.

Resources

• How to Install Ceramic Wall Tiles
• How To Install Wall Tiles
• How to Lay Bathroom Floor Tile
• How to Lay a Tile Backsplash
• How to Install Marble Tile on a Fireplace
• How to Buy and Install Glass Tile
• How To Regrout Shower Tile
• How to Install Bathroom Tiles
• How to Pick Bathroom Tile
• How to Cut Granite Tops
• How to Install Ceramic Tile Outdoors